Dani Smith
Dani Smith was instrumental in VIU's success this past weekend. Making the road trip to Abbotsford, VIU played a very strong determined CBC squad in back to back matches. On Friday night, CBC pushed the Mariners to 5 sets, winning 3-2 (25-27, 25-17, 18-25, 25-20, 15-12). Smith tallied 5 kills, 2 blocks and 1 ace for 8 offensive points. She also added 13 digs. Sunday night saw the same determined Bearcats push the Mariners, this time in only 4 sets. VIU would win 3-1 (23-25, 25-19, 26-24, 25-17) to take weekend matches. Smith would end up with 2 kills, 3 blocks and 12 digs.
VIU clinched 1st place finish in the PACWEST following the weekend result which allowed them to retain their #1 National ranking. The Mariners were able to have a well balanced attack due to the great play of 4th year setter Smith. “Dani placed the ball in near perfect spots for her hitters every time. She chipped in individually with a total of 7 kills, 5 blocks and 25 digs over the course of the weekend. For a setter Dani tallied some very impressive individual stats in a conference that does not include assists. There is no question without the play of Dani Smith the Mariners ability to clinch first place would not have occurred. Dani will be looked at to run the Mariner offence leading into Provincials and Nationals.”